De Menezes family attack ruling

The family of Jean Charles de Menezes have accused the Metropolitan Police of "getting away with murder" after 11 officers escaped punishment over his death.

The officers who mistook the Brazilian for a suicide bomber and shot him will not be disciplined, the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said.

But the threat of a disciplinary tribunal still hangs over four senior officers including Commander Cressida Dick, who authorised the shoot-to-kill policy. The IPCC said one surveillance officer will be given "management advice" over action he took after the shooting at Stockwell Tube station.

Patricia da Silva Armani, Mr de Menezes' cousin, who lived with him in Scotia Road at the time of his death, said her family were bitterly disappointed. She said: "It is disgraceful the IPCC can make such a decision - they are letting the police get away with murder. First officials killed my cousin, then they lied about it and now the officers are walking away without any punishment.

"It is a travesty of justice and another slap in the face for our family. The police officers lives go on as normal while we exist in turmoil, fighting to get the answers and justice we deserve."

Mr de Menezes, an electrician, was shot seven times in the head after being mistaken for a suicide bomber at Stockwell tube station on July 22, 2005. His death came in the aftermath of the 7/7 London bombings in which 52 people were killed and hundreds injured in the worst terrorist atrocity in British history.

The Metropolitan Police faces prosecution under health and safety laws for organisational failings connected to the shooting. The IPCC said no decision about the fate of the four senior officers will be made until after the trial, scheduled for October. But the Justice4Jean Campaign, set up by his family and friends, said Friday's decision could prejudice the health and safety trial.

A spokesman said: "Today's decision effectively says police officers can act above the law, free to take human life without facing a full legal investigation like anyone else."

The de Menezes family said they are "gravely disappointed" that the officers have been exonerated. Their legal team said it is "highly unusual" for the disciplinary decision to be made prior to the conclusion of criminal proceedings. A spokeswoman said the family believe criminal charges for manslaughter through gross negligence can still be brought against the four senior officers.

Nick Hardwick, IPCC chairman, said Mr de Menezes was "entirely innocent" and could not have done anything to escape. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said the force is sorry for the death of Mr de Menezes. He said: "We welcome this move forward and are pleased for these officers and their families who have faced much uncertainty."